Russian satellite Cosmos-2612 approaches U.S. ICEYE-X36 in orbit
· World · The Hindu, New York Times
Russia's Cosmos-2612 satellite has repeatedly changed its orbit to approach the U.S.-registered ICEYE-X36 radar-imaging satellite. The two satellites came within 1-2 km of each other on October 17, 2026, according to astronomer Marco Langbroek. ICEYE-X36, operated by a Finnish company, supplies radar data to Ukraine amid the ongoing war. Cosmos-2612 is one of six Russian military satellites launched on April 16, 2026, with undisclosed mission or instruments. The approach constitutes a non-consensual rendezvous and proximity operation (RPO). No attack or intent has been established as of October 18, 2026, 10 am IST.
Why it matters
The close approach raises concerns about the militarisation of space and potential threats to commercial satellites supporting Ukraine. It highlights the growing risk of satellite interference in orbital domains used for intelligence and humanitarian support.
Read the original report — The Hindu
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